Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 21, 2025
Application of the En Bloc Concept Combined with Anatomic Resection in Laparoscopic Hepatectomy
Published on: March 10, 2023
[Evidence of minimally invasive oncological surgery of the liver]
1Klinik f. Allgemein‑, Viszeral- und Transplantationschirurgie, Universitätsmedizin Mainz, Langenbeckstraße 1, 55131, Mainz, Deutschland.
Background:
The evidence for minimally invasive surgery (MIS) of the liver has significantly increased with the increasing number of publications on this topic in recent years; however, this technique has not yet gained broad acceptance among surgeons.
Objective:
Analysis and presentation of the current literature on MIS of the liver.
Material Und Methods:
Structured PubMed literature search and analysis.
Results:
According to the literature, MIS and open liver surgery are equivalent regarding the oncological quality. In addition to parenchyma-preserving resections, major hepatectomies (e.g. hemihepatectomy and sectorectomy), two-stage concepts and re-resections have increasingly been reported. The MIS of the liver is associated with less blood loss and other immunological advantages in addition to a shorter hospital stay. The highest level of evidence has been achieved for colorectal liver metastases for which a systematic review even revealed a survival benefit for patients undergoing MIS surgery. From an oncological perspective, laparoscopic and robotic liver surgery are considered to be equivalent.
Conclusion:
According to the current literature MIS of the liver is recommended for the resection of colorectal liver metastases and hepatocellular carcinoma.
Insights
Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for liver resection is oncologically equivalent to open surgery, offering benefits like reduced blood loss and shorter hospital stays. MIS is recommended for colorectal liver metastases and hepatocellular carcinoma.
Area of Science:
- Hepatobiliary surgery
- Surgical oncology
- Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS)
Background:
- Growing evidence supports minimally invasive surgery (MIS) for liver procedures, yet surgeon adoption remains limited.
- Publications on MIS liver surgery have increased significantly in recent years.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze and present the current literature on minimally invasive surgery (MIS) of the liver.
- Evaluate the efficacy and safety of MIS liver resections.
Main Methods:
- A structured literature search was conducted using PubMed.
- Analysis of existing studies on MIS liver surgery.
Main Results:
- Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) and open liver surgery demonstrate equivalent oncological outcomes.
- MIS liver surgery is associated with reduced blood loss, immunological advantages, and shorter hospital stays.
- Evidence is strongest for colorectal liver metastases, with some studies suggesting a survival benefit with MIS.
Conclusions:
- Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is recommended for liver resections in cases of colorectal liver metastases.
- MIS is also advised for hepatocellular carcinoma resection based on current literature.
